Russel Allen Johnson, age 83, of Sandstone, MN passed away on Thursday, October 28, 2021, at his home.

Russel was born on November 16, 1937, in Willmar, MN to Alfred and Mildred (Garner) Johnson He grew up in the Lake Lillian, Spicer, and Atwater area, graduating from Atwater High School in 1955. After graduation Russel joined the Army and served his country from 1956 to 1961 in Alaska. After his father grew sick, Russell returned home to work on the family farm, when he met Rosella Remmel, marrying her on September 20, 1959, in Atwater, MN. After braving the Alaskan wilderness Russel and Rosella moved back to Minnesota and lived in a variety of places including Litchfield, Forest Lake, Chisago City, and then settling in Sandstone. Throughout the years Russel provided for his family driving truck for waste control and Century Fence. He also worked road construction. Russel was a proud member of the Teamsters union and the NFO. If you wanted to bring a smile to Russel's face you just had to bring up his wife, family and especially his grandson; he loved to spend time with his family. Old farm equipment was a hobby that Russel enjoyed and would share his knowledge with anyone that asked.

Russel is preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Mildred. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Rosella; his son, Curt Johnson; his daughter, Patricia (Dan) Knopf of Sandstone, MN; and two grandchildren, Kelly (Shelby) Knopf of Rock Creek, MN and Jess Knopf of Sandstone, MN.

A private memorial service with military honors is being planned, with burial at a later date in Willmar, MN.

Arrangements by Methven Funeral and Cremation Services of Sandstone, MN.